Based on market data for Friday, February 20, 2026, the Indian stock market is experiencing a significant downturn, with benchmark indices trading lower due to broad selling pressure and heightened geopolitical tensions. 

Key Takeaways (Friday, Feb 20, 2026):

• Market Trend: The Sensex and Nifty are trading sharply lower, with the Sensex dropping over 500 points in early trade and Nifty struggling below 25,600.
• Top Losers/Sectors: IT, Realty, and Pharma shares are under pressure, with the Nifty IT index declining over 2%.
• Top Gainers/Sectors: Oil & Gas stocks (like ONGC) are rising due to increased crude oil prices, while banking stocks remain mixed.
• Market Sentiment: Negative sentiment prevails due to a stronger dollar, selling pressure from foreign investors, and US-Iran tensions.
• Specific Stock Movement: Novartis India shares jumped up to 18% following a stake sale announcement, while Newgen Software surged over 16%.

• Key Factors Driving the Market:

• Geopolitical Risk: Rising US-Iran tensions have boosted oil prices, causing volatility in equity markets.
• Weakening Rupee: The Indian rupee has declined against the US dollar, causing foreign investors to offload shares.
• IT Sector Drag: Ongoing selling in IT stocks continues to weigh on the overall market.